Nestled in a mountainous amphitheatre, at the highest point in the Waterberg, lies Griffons Bush Camp.
Griffons Bush Camp offers an exclusive yet private bush camp where visitors can unwind and relax, within Marakele National Park. Please note this is a bush camp and not a luxury game lodge.
Guests have a choice of 4 thatched, chalets, which were built from the natural stone of the area, and some of the chalets have wooden decks. One of the chalets has been furnished with a king-size bed as well as a single bed, and the other chalets have 2 to 3 single beds. Each chalet has an adjoining ablution facility which consists of a shower, a toilet and a basin. The ablutions are walled by poles, with open skies for lovely star views. Some of the ablutions do have canvas roofs for those who are less adventurous. Each chalet has a heater and its own coffee station. The units are serviced daily. For cooking, there is a fully equipped communal kitchen with a fridge, gas stoves, cutlery and crockery as well as cooking utensils. Our new family unit (for 4 people), has it's own small kitchen.
Set in a fig and acacia forest, visitors can participate in various guided nature trails ranging from leisurely and relaxed to more demanding and steep. In summer, the mountain streams offer pools for hikers to cool off in. Guided game drives or self-drive options into Marakele National Park are also available, but please note a high clearance vehicle is recommended for some of the roads.
For the birders, various bird species can be seen in the area, and includes the large Cape Griffon colony, the Orange-breasted bushshrike and the White-crested Helmetshrike. The Black-chested Snake Eagle, the Gymnogene and Brown Snake Eagle have also been seen. Various animals such as buck, baboons, monkeys as well as civets, lions, leopards and hyena can also be seen.
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Griffons Bush Camp
Griffons Bush Camp
Griffons Bush Camp
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Griffons Bush Camp offers an exclusive yet private bush camp where visitors can unwind and relax, within Marakele National Park. Please note this is a bush camp and not a luxury game lodge.
Guests have a choice of 4 thatched, chalets, which were built from the natural stone of the area, and some of the chalets have wooden decks. One of the chalets has been furnished with a king-size bed as well as a single bed, and the other chalets have 2 to 3 single beds. Each chalet has an adjoining ablution facility which consists of a shower, a toilet and a basin. The ablutions are walled by poles, with open skies for lovely star views. Some of the ablutions do have canvas roofs for those who are less adventurous. Each chalet has a heater and its own coffee station. The units are serviced daily. For cooking, there is a fully equipped communal kitchen with a fridge, gas stoves, cutlery and crockery as well as cooking utensils. Our new family unit (for 4 people), has it's own small kitchen.
Set in a fig and acacia forest, visitors can participate in various guided nature trails ranging from leisurely and relaxed to more demanding and steep. In summer, the mountain streams offer pools for hikers to cool off in. Guided game drives or self-drive options into Marakele National Park are also available, but please note a high clearance vehicle is recommended for some of the roads.
For the birders, various bird species can be seen in the area, and includes the large Cape Griffon colony, the Orange-breasted bushshrike and the White-crested Helmetshrike. The Black-chested Snake Eagle, the Gymnogene and Brown Snake Eagle have also been seen. Various animals such as buck, baboons, monkeys as well as civets, lions, leopards and hyena can also be seen.
Griffons Bush Camp offers an exclusive yet private bush camp where visitors can unwind and relax, within Marakele National Park. Please note this is a bush camp and not a luxury game lodge.
Guests have a choice of 4 thatched, chalets, which were built from the natural stone of the area, and some of the chalets have wooden decks. One of the chalets has been furnished with a king-size bed as well as a single bed, and the other chalets have 2 to 3 single beds. Each chalet has an adjoining ablution facility which consists of a shower, a toilet and a basin. The ablutions are walled by poles, with open skies for lovely star views. Some of the ablutions do have canvas roofs for those who are less adventurous. Each chalet has a heater and its own coffee station. The units are serviced daily. For cooking, there is a fully equipped communal kitchen with a fridge, gas stoves, cutlery and crockery as well as cooking utensils. Our new family unit (for 4 people), has it's own small kitchen.
Set in a fig and acacia forest, visitors can participate in various guided nature trails ranging from leisurely and relaxed to more demanding and steep. In summer, the mountain streams offer pools for hikers to cool off in. Guided game drives or self-drive options into Marakele National Park are also available, but please note a high clearance vehicle is recommended for some of the roads.
For the birders, various bird species can be seen in the area, and includes the large Cape Griffon colony, the Orange-breasted bushshrike and the White-crested Helmetshrike. The Black-chested Snake Eagle, the Gymnogene and Brown Snake Eagle have also been seen. Various animals such as buck, baboons, monkeys as well as civets, lions, leopards and hyena can also be seen.
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Reviews (20)
20 guests' feedbackGriffons was a delight to discover so close to Johannesburg. Cell signal is intermittent so it's a perfect exccuse to go off grid for a while and recharge yourself instead of your phone. With all the rain there is a fair amount of erosion to the roads to heed their warning of requiring a high clearance vehicle.
We had a wonderful stay for 3 days, the silence was very relaxing away from the town noise. Alois was very helpful.
The chalets were clean and offer comfortable accommodation. The outdoor shower is unique. The central kitchen functions well. Alois is very friendly and spoiled us with enough braai wood and the fireplace was cleaned every day. We chose not to have our chalet cleaned every day and the dishes in the central kitchen were washed by the staff. Little to no cell phone signal which is good. Unfortunately there is only one USB power point at the kitchen which works from solar panels so if there are number of people it goes lol. The access road just outside Thabazimbi is a dirt road which is very bad and then you have the pass (think Bakkerspass) which is a nightmare. We drove 10 km for a whole hour. Owners of sedan cars should not simply consider it - essential SUV with large wheels as a minimum. Alois (ranger) waited for us at the gate all afternoon for the last 1 km to the camp. Better arrangement is to call him when one is in Thabazimbi and he can then plan when he will wait at the gate. I have his cell number if you want to publish it. Last point: no direct access from here to Marekele (park). Only limited guided walking (with Alois) on the part of the reserve - also cannot drive here with own vehicles and game drives not available here.
The camp manger was waiting for us at the gate after we were worried about cell reception. We we’re taken to our accommodation and showed around. He made sure we had hot water. Thanks to him. He really made us feel safe and we enjoyed our stay. Loved the view of the mountain to see the vultures.
Loved the outside shower. Magnificent views make the difficult road journey up the mountain worth while.
If you want chrome and glass and all the mod cons, this is not for you. But if you like getting away to a quiet peaceful rustic place one step above camping in the bushveld - then this is great. The wildlife on your doorstep and so many different bird calls - the mind boggles. You are within the Marakele National Park.
We had an amazing time at Griffons Bush Camp! As the two words “bush” and “camp” suggest, it’s not a five star luxury lodge. Instead, it’s a true back to nature experience with solar lights, outdoor shower and braai under the stars. Alois gave us a warm welcome and was there every day to make sure all was good (like lighting the fire for hot water and even for our braai) and the owners Rob and Thelma clearly have a passion for wildlife and really made us feel at home. The setting at the foot of the mountain is magic. The road up to the camp is rough, but we took it slow and it’s doable with a normal car. We saw wildebeest, zebra, impala, monkeys and numerous birds, and could actually smell the leopard on our bush walk with Rob. We will certainly be back!
The on-site supervisor went out of his way to make our stay as pleasant and comfortable as possible, and only wanted to help where he could. The silence and the tranquility recharged our batteries and we were ready for the new year that awaits. Thank you Alois for your kindness and helpfulness, especially with my car's battery that went flat and he came to recharge it for me.
Customer service is very good and makes you feel very much at home. I would definitely recommend them to those who are looking for a break from the busy life.
Wonderful to shower in the open air. If it's really cold, then you do it quickly. Hot water at Chalet no 4 is still supplied by a donkey. For people who want tranquility, this is just the place to be.
We had a great stay at Griffons Bush Camp. Alois made a lot of effort, was very helpful and friendly. The environment is very beautiful and it is very peaceful. Just a pity it was so dry. The road up the mountain was also bad. We just wondered how Alois can do everything himself - fire for hot water, running camp, game drives (morning and evening), guided walking tours, washing dishes, making beds etc. Too bad he doesn't have help. However, we had to come back earlier due to some circumstances beyond our control. Thank you for the management making an extra effort to give one of the chalets to Cheryl (friend). It is appreciated.
Photos on website don't reflect reality. Disappointed when we arrived. Staff very friendly and helpful.
The only issue is the bad road you have to navigate to get to Griffons.
Make sure you have sufficient ground clearance.
Griffon Bush Camp has a lot of potential but it is a little neglected. The kitchen's roof is leaking, the tablecloths on the tables are in a bad condition. The place needs a lot of maintenance. It is a true hidden gem. Alois was an unbelievable host!
Ideal for a break from the city's hustle and bustle and technology. "Back to basics" with ease. Alois is a fantastic host and ensures that nothing is missing.
The location of the camp at the foot of the Waterberg and the Vulture nests is one of the most beautiful you can find. The camp itself has many positive elements to enjoy and especially rest. Unfortunately, the camp may not be for everyone. Visitors who feel sorry for their expensive or sedan cars should preferably not venture down the road to the camp. The wildlife in the camp environment is very limited (little buffalo, zebra, warthog, jackal) and no bird life whatsoever. Alone walks outside the camp are no longer allowed. An evening bush drive is offered at a reasonable cost and is very enjoyable - just a shame about the lack of wildlife and limited tree/plant species. The severe 2016 forest fire is now being corrected by new growth and is perhaps the reason for little wildlife. The only other option is that you have to venture several kilometers to the Marakele Nature Reserve over the aforementioned very poor rocky road to view any of the Big Five. The forest camp only has basic facilities, of course, but it's a nice self-help and back-to-earth experience. Without prior arrangement/payment there are no basic services available as advertised. Preferably go in a group of friends, otherwise it will get too quiet for some, because you will be trapped in the camping area with little nature to appreciate (apart from the mountain). The camp is just barely value for money but for a little more you can get a "better" experience in the area. The owner neglects the camp.
We enjoyed this place a lot. The fact that there are only 4 chalets makes it peaceful. We were the only people there the first night. The next day another family arrived. Our place was neat and the outdoor bathroom was a nice experience. The evenings around the fire were good for the soul. It is just the last +- 10 km of the road (it is a mountain pass) that were very bad, but that was part and parcel of our weekend adventure. We also saw lots of animals around the camp. Don't forget the thousands of vultures who nest in the mountains. The place is worthy of the name Griffons BUSH Camp.
Very nice location, neat houses and well-equipped kitchen. However, it was advertised that one could go on many walking routes - we assumed that we could undertake them on our own, but then it turned out that we could only walk with Alois's guide. He was an excellent guide, but the ad is misleading. He provided piles of wood for the fire every day and the kitchen was sparkling clean again after all our cooking sessions. The fridge and freezer facilities are not quite adequate, especially when another couple arrived on the second day and we had to share between our two fridges which do not get very cold. The outdoor shower was lovely and we were visited in the camp by monkeys, baboons, a curious warthog and it's a bird watcher's dream!
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Chalet No 1
Chalet No 2
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Guided game drives and walks on the property are an additional R200 per person per drive or walk. A minimum of 4 needs to book.Griffons Bush Camp is a self-catering bush camp, and not a luxury game lodge.
Please note there is a gravel road leading to the establishment; a high clearance vehicle is recommended to reach the establishment.
Chalet No 1
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Description
Built from the natural stone of the area, some of the self-catering chalets have their own wooden decks. Three of the chalets are furnished with 2 to 3 single beds, while a fourth is furnished with a king-size and a single bed. The chalets are equipped with heaters, a tea and coffee station, a fridge and a hotplate. Two fully equipped, shared kitchens are available for cooking. Each chalet has an adjoining ablution facility, consisting of a shower, a toilet and a basin. Some of the ablutions have canvas roofs, while others are open to view the night sky. The units are serviced daily.
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Price Includes
Griffons Bush Camp is a self-catering bush camp, and not a luxury game lodge.
House Rules
Guided game drives and walks on the property are an additional R200 per person per drive or walk. A minimum of 4 needs to book.
Griffons Bush Camp is a self-catering bush camp, and not a luxury game lodge.
Please note there is a gravel road leading to the establishment; a high clearance vehicle is recommended to reach the establishment.
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
Built from the natural stone of the area, some of the self-catering chalets have their own wooden decks. Three of the chalets are furnished with 2 to 3 single beds, while a fourth is furnished with a king-size and a single bed. The chalets are equipped with heaters, a tea and coffee station, a fridge and a hotplate. Two fully equipped, shared kitchens are available for cooking. Each chalet has an adjoining ablution facility, consisting of a shower, a toilet and a basin. Some of the ablutions have canvas roofs, while others are open to view the night sky. The units are serviced daily.
Chalet No 2
More room/unit pictures
Description
Built from the natural stone of the area, some of the self-catering chalets have their own wooden decks. Three of the chalets are furnished with 2 to 3 single beds, while a fourth is furnished with a king-size and a single bed. The chalets are equipped with heaters, a tea and coffee station, a fridge and a hotplate. Two fully equipped, shared kitchens are available for cooking. Each chalet has an adjoining ablution facility, consisting of a shower, a toilet and a basin. Some of the ablutions have canvas roofs, while others are open to view the night sky. The units are serviced daily. Children Younger than 3 years stay for free, ages 4 to 12 years are R245 per child per night.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Bathroom
Entertainment
House Rules
Guided game drives and walks on the property are an additional R200 per person per drive or walk. A minimum of 4 needs to book.
Griffons Bush Camp is a self-catering bush camp, and not a luxury game lodge.
Please note there is a gravel road leading to the establishment; a high clearance vehicle is recommended to reach the establishment.
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
Built from the natural stone of the area, some of the self-catering chalets have their own wooden decks. Three of the chalets are furnished with 2 to 3 single beds, while a fourth is furnished with a king-size and a single bed. The chalets are equipped with heaters, a tea and coffee station, a fridge and a hotplate. Two fully equipped, shared kitchens are available for cooking. Each chalet has an adjoining ablution facility, consisting of a shower, a toilet and a basin. Some of the ablutions have canvas roofs, while others are open to view the night sky. The units are serviced daily. Children Younger than 3 years stay for free, ages 4 to 12 years are R245 per child per night.
Chalet No 3
More room/unit pictures
Description
Built from the natural stone of the area, some of the self-catering chalets have their own wooden decks. Three of the chalets are furnished with 2 to 3 single beds, while a fourth is furnished with a king-size and a single bed. The chalets are equipped with heaters, a tea and coffee station, a fridge and a hotplate. Two fully equipped, shared kitchens are available for cooking. Each chalet has an adjoining ablution facility, consisting of a shower, a toilet and a basin. Some of the ablutions have canvas roofs, while others are open to view the night sky. The units are serviced daily. Children Younger than 3 years stay for free, ages 4 to 12 years are R245 per child per night.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Bathroom
Entertainment
House Rules
Guided game drives and walks on the property are an additional R200 per person per drive or walk. A minimum of 4 needs to book.
Griffons Bush Camp is a self-catering bush camp, and not a luxury game lodge.
Please note there is a gravel road leading to the establishment; a high clearance vehicle is recommended to reach the establishment.
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
Built from the natural stone of the area, some of the self-catering chalets have their own wooden decks. Three of the chalets are furnished with 2 to 3 single beds, while a fourth is furnished with a king-size and a single bed. The chalets are equipped with heaters, a tea and coffee station, a fridge and a hotplate. Two fully equipped, shared kitchens are available for cooking. Each chalet has an adjoining ablution facility, consisting of a shower, a toilet and a basin. Some of the ablutions have canvas roofs, while others are open to view the night sky. The units are serviced daily. Children Younger than 3 years stay for free, ages 4 to 12 years are R245 per child per night.
Chalet No 4
More room/unit pictures
Description
Built from the natural stone of the area, some of the self-catering chalets have their own wooden decks. Three of the chalets are furnished with 2 to 3 single beds, while a fourth is furnished with a king-size and a single bed. The chalets are equipped with heaters, a tea and coffee station, and a hotplate. Two fully equipped, shared kitchens are available for cooking. Each chalet has an adjoining ablution facility, consisting of a shower, a toilet and a basin. Some of the ablutions have canvas roofs, while others are open to view the night sky. The units are serviced daily. Children Younger than 3 years stay for free, ages 4 to 12 years are R245 per child per night.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Bathroom
House Rules
Guided game drives and walks on the property are an additional R200 per person per drive or walk. A minimum of 4 needs to book.
Griffons Bush Camp is a self-catering bush camp, and not a luxury game lodge.
Please note there is a gravel road leading to the establishment; a high clearance vehicle is recommended to reach the establishment.
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
Built from the natural stone of the area, some of the self-catering chalets have their own wooden decks. Three of the chalets are furnished with 2 to 3 single beds, while a fourth is furnished with a king-size and a single bed. The chalets are equipped with heaters, a tea and coffee station, and a hotplate. Two fully equipped, shared kitchens are available for cooking. Each chalet has an adjoining ablution facility, consisting of a shower, a toilet and a basin. Some of the ablutions have canvas roofs, while others are open to view the night sky. The units are serviced daily. Children Younger than 3 years stay for free, ages 4 to 12 years are R245 per child per night.
Griffons Bush Camp offers an exclusive yet private bush camp where visitors can unwind and relax, within Marakele National Park. Please note this is a bush camp and not a luxury game lodge.
Guests have a choice of 4 thatched, chalets, which were built from the natural stone of the area, and some of the chalets have wooden decks. One of the chalets has been furnished with a king-size bed as well as a single bed, and the other chalets have 2 to 3 single beds. Each chalet has an adjoining ablution facility which consists of a shower, a toilet and a basin. The ablutions are walled by poles, with open skies for lovely star views. Some of the ablutions do have canvas roofs for those who are less adventurous. Each chalet has a heater and its own coffee station. The units are serviced daily. For cooking, there is a fully equipped communal kitchen with a fridge, gas stoves, cutlery and crockery as well as cooking utensils. Our new family unit (for 4 people), has it's own small kitchen.
Set in a fig and acacia forest, visitors can participate in various guided nature trails ranging from leisurely and relaxed to more demanding and steep. In summer, the mountain streams offer pools for hikers to cool off in. Guided game drives or self-drive options into Marakele National Park are also available, but please note a high clearance vehicle is recommended for some of the roads.
For the birders, various bird species can be seen in the area, and includes the large Cape Griffon colony, the Orange-breasted bushshrike and the White-crested Helmetshrike. The Black-chested Snake Eagle, the Gymnogene and Brown Snake Eagle have also been seen. Various animals such as buck, baboons, monkeys as well as civets, lions, leopards and hyena can also be seen.
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